Mike Henry Says Taxi/Bus Fares Being Given Attention

The recommendations of the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) in respect of taxi and bus fares will be taken to Cabinet early in the New Year, Minister of Transport and Works Minister, Hon. Mike Henry, has said.
Mr. Henry was responding to concerns raised by segments of the national taxi umbrella groupings about the OUR recommendations, in light of the recently announced tax package which included a surcharge on fuel.
The Minister said the OUR’s recommendations were being “technically examined” within the Ministry, ahead of being factored into a submission to be sent to Cabinet early next year. He added that the process was in train and should be allowed to run its course, culminating in a Cabinet decision, as soon as possible.
In a statement issued by his Ministry on Tuesday (December 22), Mr. Henry said that the Ministry was appreciative of the concerns within the public passenger transportation sector, and the burdens being felt within the sector, which pose challenges to all the operators. However, he cautioned that it should be borne in mind that within the present national economic circumstances, brought on by the global economic recession, there is a limit to what the travelling public can take, in terms of increased fares.
“That is something the public passenger vehicle (PPV) operators will need to consider in going forward,” Mr. Henry stated.
He also said that, ahead of the matter being taken to Cabinet, he was prepared to meet with the leadership of the taxi and bus associations, to assure them that the applications were receiving the requisite attention and to discuss any other concerns which they may have.